The AERC has identified the following areas of particular current interest, but would also like to receive high quality proposals in other areas of alcohol research. All proposals will be considered on their merits. Evidence-based alcohol policy
Governments and service local commissioners /planners frequently express support for evidence-based policy to prevent and reduce alcohol-related harm. However, the processes by which scientific evidence and other factors influence the formulation of policy in this field can be opaque. The AERC invites proposals for examining these processes and finding ways in which the role of scientific evidence in policy formulation can be enhanced.
Alcohol and health inequalities
Research has shown that people from lower socio-economic groups are much more likely to suffer alcohol-related harm than those from higher socio-economic groups, although there is no evidence of a difference in consumption between these groups. The AERC invites proposals that seek to clarify and explain this apparent paradox. These could include reviews, surveys or any other relevant form of research.
Mobilising community resources
The mobilisation of community resources to prevent the development of excessive drinking or facilitate long-term recovery from alcohol dependence is frequently cited as having great potential to reduce alcohol-related harm. Unfortunately, there has been little research on this potential in the UK. The AERC invites proposals for research which examines the role of voluntary and community groups in reducing alcohol-related harm. This includes but is not limited to studies of the role and effectiveness of mutual help groups such as Alcoholics Anonymous, SMART Recovery and Moderation Management.
Read more about how to apply for an AERC grant________________________________________
